What happens when I visit Borders Chiropractic for the first time?
New Patients Appointments are approximately 60 minutes long. This is what is what to expect when you first visit us.
1. Consultation and Examination
This will usually take approximately 30 – 40 minutes.
On your first visit, we do require you to fill out a confidential medical history form which will be texted or emailed to you prior to your appointment. Once your practitioner has looked this over, this is discussed with you and followed by a thorough physical examination which will include neurological and orthopaedic testing as well as blood pressure testing where appropriate. You will usually be asked to change into a gown for examination and treatment, but if you would prefer to wear your own clothes, please wear comfy athletic clothing (whatever you would wear to the gym).
This allows us to determine what the problem is and also if there are any signs of conditions which may impact treatment going forward.
2. Report of Findings
After the case history and examination are complete, we will explain what we have found in the examination, what we think the problem is and what the proposed treatment plan is. This also gives you a chance to ask questions and discuss your problem with us in more detail. Feel free to ask as many questions as you need to ensure that you understand what you have been told. With your consent we will usually then commence treatment.
3. Treatment
Treatment usually takes about 20 minutes and can include a number of different techniques in one session.
At Borders Chiropractic treatment may consist of one or more of the following, depending on what is most suitable for your particular problem:
- Joint manipulation and mobilisation
- Soft tissue work (this may include trigger point therapy, massage, cross friction techniques & active and passive stretching techniques)
- Dry needling (using acupuncture needles)
- Activator techniques (this technique is particularly gentle)
- Blocking and drop techniques (including some SOT and cranial techniques)
- Interferential and Ultrasound therapies
- Taping and strapping
- Rehabilitative exercises
- Ergonomic and postural advice
- Orthotic advice
Treatment is usually painless and gentle. Occasionally you may feel more uncomfortable, stiff or tired for a day or so following treatment. Some patients on the other hand experience instant relief and feel more energetic. Both reactions to treatment are perfectly normal. If you feel worried about anything during or after treatment please do not hesitate to let us know.
How many visit will I need to feel better?
This will depend on a few things:
- Your particular condition
- How long you have had that problem/condition
- The severity of the condition
- Your response to treatment
- How well you follow the advice and exercise programs given
- If there are any complicating factors such as previous surgery to the area, severe wear and tear etc.
Your progress will be reviewed regularly to make sure you are receiving the most appropriate treatment for your particular condition. If your condition is not something that is likely to respond to Chiropractic/Osteopathic treatment or if your condition does not improve as expected we will refer you to your GP or appropriate health care professional.
What happens after my first visit?
After an adjustment, you might feel mild soreness or have very minor aches in areas of your body that your chiropractor worked on. Don’t worry, this usually goes away within 24 hours. If you ever have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
After your appointment, your chiropractor might have some recommendations on what you can do at home to get better. These recommendations might include:
- Exercises and stretches
- Proper ergonomics for improving your posture
- Applying ice or heat to the area
- Advice on nutrition or general health
- Ways to manage stress and relax
They will also advise when/if you should book back in to see them. Follow up treatments are 20-30 minutes long and tend to be spaced out as you start feeling better. We also offer double appointments and dedicated acupuncture and MLS Laser appointments depending on your needs and goals which can be discussed with your practitioner as you progress.
